ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Oakland Golden Grizzlies battled with the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Huskies in a tightly contested match to close out Labor Day Weekend, at the Oakland Soccer Field.
The first half was a balanced affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. NIU's Tyra King had an early opportunity in the 8th minute, but her shot went wide. Oakland responded with a shot from
Lisa Kazandjian in the 16th minute, which may have been their best look of the game as she received a long ball to slip past the Huskies' defense, but her shot sailed over the crossbar. Despite the efforts from both sides, the first half ended without a goal and both teams tied at zero.
In the opening half each team registered just two shots in a defensive showdown, with both back lines playing with impressive speed and toughness.
Oakland opened up the second half with a strong chance from
Frankie Mudd had a chance early in the half at the 49th minute, but her shot went high. The pivotal moment of the match came in the 58th minute when NIU's Tyra King scored the game's only goal. Assisted by Kelsi McLaughlin and Alyssa Stephenson, King's third goal of the season proved to be the winner. Oakland tried to respond, but their efforts were thwarted by NIU's solid defense, and they were unable to register a single shot on target throughout the match.
Oakland's performance highlighted their defensive resilience, with goalkeeper
Julia Zangerl making four key saves to keep her team in the game. The Golden Grizzlies were just unable to find clear chances at the net, managing only four shots, none of which tested NIU's goalkeeper, Ary Purifoy.
Individually, Zangerl stood out for Oakland, delivering a solid performance between the posts.
Tianna McDonald also had a solid showing, starting in place of the injured
Mia Tuka and playing a full 90 minutes.
A strong second half from NIU became the deciding factor in the match as they outshot Oakland 9-to4, with five of their shots on target compared to Oakland's zero. NIU also controlled 60% of the possession, which allowed them to dictate the pace of the game and keep Oakland on the back foot.
"Soccer can be unforgiving. We created 5-6 high-quality chances, hit the post, had two 1v1 moments with opponent goalkeeper and yet couldn't find the back of the net," said Oakland Head Coach Devin Zvosec. "Still, I'm incredibly proud of how we stuck to our game, finding joy in possession and handling a high-pressing opponent with composure. We controlled the game for 75 minutes, but we need to sustain that level of quality for the full 90. This week in training, we'll focus on sharpening our attack and bringing out the goal scorers in the group."
The Golden Grizzlies have a week-long break from play as they return to the field on Sunday, Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. to take on Toledo.
